Vitamin D in the General Population of Young Adults with Autism in the Faroe Islands
KoÄovská E, Andorsdóttir G, Weihe P, Halling J, Fernell E, Stóra T, Biskupstø R, Gillberg IC, Shea R, Billstedt E, Bourgeron T, Minnis H, Gillberg C. (2014) J Autism Dev Disord
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Abstract:
Vitamin D deficiency has been proposed as a possible risk factor for developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD).25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) levels were examined in a cross-sectional population-based study in the Faroe Islands. The case group consisting of a total population cohort of 40 individuals with ASD (aged 15-24 years) had significantly lower 25(OH)D3 than their 62 typically-developing siblings and their 77 parents, and also significantly lower than 40 healthy age and gender matched comparisons.
There was a trend for males having lower 25(OH)D3 than females. Effects of age, month/season of birth, IQ, various subcategories of ASD and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule score were also investigated, however, no association was found.
The very low 25(OH)D3 in the ASD group suggests some underlying pathogenic mechanism.
FAB RESEARCH COMMENT:
For a detailed discussion of this research paper, with links to other articles relevant to this finding of severe Vitamin D deficiency in youg adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, please see the related news item by Dr Paul Whitely - an expert in nutrition and the autistic spectrum.See also:
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